Communication Satellites

Proprietary design of satellite systems, and LEO/GEO/HEO, polar and sun-synchronous orbits. Geostationary satellites orbit at the same speed as the Earth's rotation, allowing them to remain fixed relative to a specific point on the Earth's surface; this makes them ideal for telecommunications, broadcasting, and internet services. LEO and MEO satellites orbit closer to the Earth and are used for different purposes such as GPS, Earth observation, and satellite internet constellations. Real-time position of current operational satellites shown here.

For a communications satellite, much of the cost is wrapped up in the payload and bus hardware, advanced operations software, and high-performance systems-on-chip (SoC) based on 5G-Advanced and 6G mobile networks standards. Payload refers to those elements of the spacecraft specifically dedicated to producing mission data and then relaying that data back to Earth – communication antennas, cell and receivers, amplifiers and transmitters. These payloads are designed to operate within specific frequency bands allocated for communication purposes.

The rest of the satellite, the bus, supports the payload by providing a structure, power, commanding and telemetry, an appropriate thermal environment, radiation shielding, and attitude control; also, optimal positioning for communications within a mesh network. To operate, the communication satellite constellation will require radio frequency (RF) licensing, and comprehensive flight certification documentation – transmitter and spacecraft specifications, materials list, orbital debris mitigation, venting analysis, and battery and testing reports.

Communication satellites have a limited lifespan, typically ranging from 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as fuel reserves and the health of onboard systems. They require periodic maintenance and adjustments to maintain their position and functionality.